Reforming mental health care in Victoria: A decade later

Abstract

Objective: From 1994, the Australian State of Victoria began a major transformation of its public mental health service system. In June 2006, St Vincent's Mental Health hosted a conference to reflect on the changes and identify steps to be taken over the next decade. Method: Participants came from Victoria's 21 adult mental health services, consumer and carer groups, and psychiatric disability rehabilitation and support organizations. They met in small groups, and discussed pre-set topics. Their observations were pooled in plenary sessions. Results: Participants agreed the changes had had many positive outcomes. People most affected by mental illness had priority for treatment. Services were..